RPA pay tribute to the retiring Rob Hawkins

The Rugby Players’ Association (RPA) has today paid tribute to the retiring RPA Player Representative for Newcastle Falcons, Rob Hawkins.

The 33-year-old will retire from professional rugby at the end of the 2015/16 season to focus on a post-rugby career with the Police after joining as a Special Constable in November last year.

The Taunton born hooker, who signed with Newcastle at the start of 2014/15 season, has enjoyed successful spells with Bath Rugby (2003-2011), Leicester Tigers (2011-2014) and Newcastle (2014-2016).

A member of the Leicester Tigers team which clinched the Aviva Premiership title in 2012/13, Rob will retire from the game with over 130 top flight appearances to his name.

He said: “I’m in a very fortunate position to be able to retire on my own terms and I feel hugely lucky to have spent such a long period in the game. I have enjoyed each and every moment of my career, representing three fantastic clubs, winning trophies and taking the pitch with so many outstanding players along the way.

“I’m now hoping to have a successful career in the Police, I’m currently in the application process and I’m excited about what lies ahead. I would like to thank the RPA for giving me the opportunity to sit on the Players’ Board this season as an RPA Player Rep. I appreciate the work they do and it’s been an incredible insight into the business of the game.”

RPA Group CEO, Damian Hopley, said: “Rob has been an eminent member of the RPA Players’ Board since taking over as our Newcastle Player Rep this season. As you would expect from a seasoned professional, Rob takes his duties of representing his fellow players very seriously and has been a really positive influence at all three clubs he has represented with great distinction.

“Rugby always had a very strong relationship with the Police force in the amateur era and it is great to see Rob continuing that connection in his retirement from playing. We wish him every success going forward and I have no doubt that he will have continued success in any potential new role.”

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